ESA is working closely with the Alarm Industry
Communications Committee (AICC) to support the Pennsylvania Burglar and Fire
Alarm Association (PBFAA) in its challenge of potential deregulation of the state’s
telephone industry.

At its meeting earlier this month, AICC began determining whether to
contact the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) with its concerns about the
legislation, or to work within the state legislature. The legislation, which is heavily supported by Verizon,
could have far-reaching implications for competition in the electronic security
sector.

According to the bill’s sponsor, House Bill
2496 seeks to "phase out regulation of telecommunications utilities by the
Public Utility Commission and permit the development of free market competition
between traditionally regulated telecommunications carriers, cable companies,
VoIP carriers, and wireless carriers.” The legislation would permit a telecom
carrier to use "any available technology to provide lifeline service”
without subjecting that technology to regulation.

Verizon officials have previously denied any interest in
security services, and say the bill is meant to "level the playing field” with
other entities such as cable companies in regards to voice services.